Pope Leo offers comfort to families of Swiss fire victims

VATICAN CITY - Pope Leo met Thursday with families of the victims of the New Year's fire in a Swiss ski resort bar, saying faith can help in "the darkest and most painful moments".

Leo XIV received about 20 relatives of the Crans-Montana fire victims in a private audience at the Vatican, addressing words of comfort two weeks after the disaster that killed 40 people and injured 116.

"I cannot explain to you, dear brothers and sisters, why it was asked of you and your loved ones to face such a trial. The affection and human words of compassion that I offer you today seem very limited and powerless," said the pope in Italian, according to a transcript of his speech released by the Vatican.

"The faith that dwells within us illuminates the darkest and most painful moments of our lives with an irreplaceable light, helping us to continue courageously on the path toward our goal," said the US pope, adding that "you will find joy again".

The group was later due to meet the undersecretary of the cabinet of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Alfredo Mantovano, as well as Justice Minister Carlo Nordio. — Agence France-Presse